Behavioral Management Strategies for Huntington's Disease

Non-Pharmacological Interventions

Establish a predictable daily routine with consistent timing for meals, activities, and sleep to reduce confusion and anxiety in patients with Huntington's disease, as recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians 2
Create a safe environment by removing hazards, installing safety locks on doors, and reducing environmental stimuli that may trigger agitation in patients with Huntington's disease, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians 2
Use the "three R's" approach (repeat, reassure, and redirect) to manage behavioral disturbances in patients with Huntington's disease, as suggested by the American Academy of Family Physicians 2, 3
Break complex tasks into simple steps and provide clear, simple instructions for each step to help patients with Huntington's disease, as recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians 2
Use visual cues, calendars, and labels to help with orientation in patients with Huntington's disease, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians 2
Reduce excess environmental stimulation that can lead to agitation and disorientation in patients with Huntington's disease, as suggested by the American Academy of Family Physicians 2

Antipsychotic medications (such as haloperidol, sulpiride, and quetiapine) can help manage chorea, psychosis, and severe behavioral disturbances in patients with Huntington's disease, as reported in Protein and Cell 1
Start with low doses and titrate slowly ("start low, go slow") when prescribing medications for patients with Huntington's disease, as recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians 3

Overlooking non-pharmacological approaches before initiating medication in patients with Huntington's disease is a common pitfall, as noted by the American Academy of Family Physicians 2